b'Carrot breeders evaluate varieties in a demonstration field, with Rudie Steentjes pictured in the middle. Photo: BejoFasola highlights Bejos boots-on-the- Bejo employs marker-assisted selection for ground approach: Our local representa- disease and quality traits, digital phenotyp-tives and crop specialists gather feedback Developing a newing via drones, and hybrid purity control from growers and processors worldwide.for consistent performance. Were always Cooperation with research institutes likevariety generally takes innovating through partnerships, says Wageningen University supports studiesSteentjes, to deliver improved varieties on taste and nutrition. eight to 10 years offaster and with greater precision.This constant dialogue keeps breedingbreeding, selection, At BASF, molecular breeding is programs responsive to evolving produc- becoming standard. Shahin confirms, tion systems, mechanisation trends, andand multi-locationThese tools dont replace classical breed-consumer preferences. testingfrom theing, but they make it much more efficient.ACCESS TO GERMPLASM LOOKING AHEADNew regulations on Access and BenefitNetherlands to EgyptCarrot breeding is changing rapidlyand Sharing (ABS) have made sourcing ger- and Tanzania.yet its core mission remains the same: deliv-mplasm more complex. Yes, ABS hasering healthy, high-performing varieties added bureaucracy, says Yanchuk, but we Rik Wittink that make life easier for growers and more continue to strengthen our genetics throughcolourful for consumers.partnerships with universities, gene banks,From the seedbeds of Tanzania to the and licensing agreements. high-tech greenhouses of the Netherlands, At Bayer, Maupin points to one oftodays breeders are bridging tradition and the worlds strongest carrot gene pools:technology to prepare the crop for tomor-Our germplasm builds on the legacy ofThese collaborations not only ensurerows challenges: hotter summers, fewer Asgrow, Petoseed, and Royal Sluis. Wecontinued genetic progress but also supportpesticides, and a marketplace hungry for also regularly introduce new material fromthe wider industry through open contribu- colour, taste, and sustainability.the USDAs Carrot Genetics and Breedingtions to public collections. As Wittink sums up, Whether were Program and collaborate with UC Davisbreeding for Africa or Europe, the essen-and the Foundation for Food & AgricultureINTEGRATING NEW BREEDINGtials dont changestrong roots, vibrant Research to tap wild carrot diversity for dis- TECHNOLOGIES colour, and resilience. Thats what defines a ease and drought tolerance. Advanced tools are accelerating progress.good carrot.NOVEMBER 2025|SEEDWORLD.COM/EUROPEISEED WORLD EUROPE I 17'